Final numbers for March used truck sales mixed

Used Class 8 truck metrics continued to be mixed in March, according to the latest release of the State of the Industry: U.S. Classes 3-8 Used Trucks, published by ACT Research.

“March Class 8 used truck volumes, up 8% month-over-month, continued their upward trek, following a significant recovery last month from January’s low. This, however, translates to a 5% YTD contraction compared to the first three months of 2015,” said Steve Tam, ACT’s vice president for the commercial vehicle sector. “Dealers continue to report falling used truck values and they believe prices will continue to fall for some time. Average mileage of used Class 8 trucks in March fell 3% month-over-month, a second consecutive month of improvement for this measure. The average age of Class 8 used trucks sold in March remained flat m/m, while prices trended up m/m in all three market segments, with retail and auction segments faring the best; prices remain lower on a year-over-year basis.”

Fontaine Specialized announced the new Magnitude 75 lowbed trailer. This 3+3+2 modular multi-purpose trailer is designed to transport a diverse range of loads, according to Fontaine, who adds that the Magnitude 75 comes in three distinct deck options: flat (MFLD), drop side rail (MDSR), and beam (MBMD)."The Magnitude 75 epitomizes versatility in heavy-haul lowbeds. It accommodates loads of up to 75 tons in 16 feet as a 3+2 or with five close coupled axles," said Heather Gilmer, vice president of sales. "Furthermore, it adeptly handles 70 tons in just 12 feet configured with the tandem axle EQ2 spreader. This adaptable trailer features a hydraulic detachable gooseneck and a tridem axle bogie, each providing seven ride height positions. This enhanced flexibility is invaluable for operators maneuvering heavy loads across obstacles or beneath bridges.”Fontaine says the Magnitude 75 was made with 100,000-lb. minimum yield steel main beam flanges; and the flat and beam decks boast a 24-in. loaded deck height, while the drop side rail deck reduces it to 15-in. At full load, all modular decks offer 6-in. of ground clearance.